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Manager Terry Francona is trying to manipulate a six-man rotation. The Red Sox play Baltimore in a Sept. 19 doubleheader, which means they will need six starters that week.

Otherwise, Wakefield's chances may be scarce - or nil - after the Toronto start. Only Steve Carlton, who needed seven starts to win his 200th game in 1978, has endured a longer drought after No. 199 than Wakefield.

Wakefield will be available in the bullpen this week. It's unlikely, but there is always the chance he could grab No. 200 in relief.